Plum - Gold
Country of Origin: Japan 🇯🇵
Introduction
The Gold plum, a yellow Japanese plum (Prunus salicina) grown in Italy, is a medium-sized, round fruit with bright golden-yellow skin and juicy, sweet flesh. Known for its early ripening and low chill requirements (300–400 hours), it thrives in Italy’s warm Mediterranean regions. Self-fertile and productive, it’s enjoyed fresh, dried, or in culinary dishes like jams and desserts, offering a vibrant appearance and nutritional benefits like vitamins A and C.
History
Gold plums, part of the Japanese plum group, were introduced to the West from Japan in the late 19th century and adapted in regions like California before spreading to Italy. In Italy, cultivars like Golden Japan have been cultivated since the 20th century, particularly in regions like Emilia-Romagna and Sicily, where breeding programs focused on early-season, low-chill varieties. Their adoption in Italy reflects their suitability for warm climates and early market demand.
Regions
Originating in Japan, the Gold plum is now cultivated in Italy, particularly in Mediterranean regions like Emilia-Romagna, Sicily, and Puglia, where warm temperatures and well-drained soils support its growth. Beyond Italy, it’s grown in other Mediterranean countries (e.g., Spain, Greece), California, Australia, and New Zealand. In Italy, it’s valued for local markets and export, thriving in USDA zones 5–9.
Flavours & Texture
Gold plums offer a sweet, slightly tart flavour with juicy, tender yellow flesh that is less fibrous than other plums. Their smooth, golden skin is thin and edible, complementing the succulent texture. When ripe, the flesh is soft yet firm, making them ideal for fresh eating or cooking, with a bright, refreshing taste that shines in both sweet and savoury dishes.
How to Prepare
Wash Gold plums thoroughly and enjoy fresh, removing the pit for convenience. Slice into salads, blend into smoothies, or cook into jams, compotes, or sauces for desserts like crostata or savoury dishes like pork glazes. Grill halved plums for a caramelised treat. Store unripe plums at room temperature to ripen, then refrigerate.
Nutritional Values
Gold plums are a good source of vitamin C for immune support and vitamin A for vision, with fibre aiding digestion. Their yellow flesh likely contains antioxidants like beta-carotene. Values are approximate and based on standard Japanese plum profiles.
| Nutrient | Value per 100g | % Daily Value (DV) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 46 kcal | 2% |
| Carbohydrates | 11.4 g | 4% |
| Sugars | 9.9 g | - |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.4 g | 5% |
| Protein | 0.7 g | 1% |
| Fat | 0.3 g | <1% |
| Vitamin C | 9.5 mg | 11% |
| Vitamin A | 345 IU | 7% |
| Potassium | 157 mg | 3% |
SHIPPING
Choose your desired delivery date at the checkout, available delivery dates will be displayed at checkout stage. All orders are dispatched on a 24hr Next Working Day service. If no date is selected your order will be dispatched at the next available date.
We offer Free Next Working Day Delivery on all orders over £75 including our selection boxes.
Our shipping rates are as follows:-
England - £6.95
Scotland - £11.95
Northern Ireland - Not currently available
Customers are responsible for being present at the shipping address provided on the date selected at checkout. Exotic Fruits are not responsible for any missed or attempted deliveries that must be rearranged by the customer.
All orders are packed in cardboard boxes with a biodegradable packing pellets, straw, or hay to protect the fruit during transit.
RETURNS
Let's start by stating the obvious. Since our produce is perishable we cannot accept returns.
That said, we want every customer to be happy so we do offer vouchers, refunds and replacements at our sole discretion if your fruit has arrived inedible. If you would like to report an item which has become damaged or perished during transit, please:- We are not responsible for products that spoil if there is not someone to receive your delivery on the date that you request it, full tracking is provided and can be requested anytime after dispatch.
